Guide to Playbill Design

Playbills are essential for all theater performances, ranging from local school plays to Broadway shows. They provide vital information to the audience, including the play's title, performance dates, cast members, characters, and a synopsis of scenes or musical numbers. You can create a 4-page or 8-page playbill depending on your preferences and budget.

Decide on the size of your playbill, considering factors like budget and information to convey. For off-Broadway plays, a simple design works. Options include a 4-page layout or an 8-page design. Professional productions may opt for custom-designed covers and professionally printed layouts, while the content remains similar.

Creating the 4-Page Playbill. Opting for the 4-page format positions the front and back covers on the top left and right quarter of a sheet, with the cast page and scene list on the bottom left and right, respectively. This layout is cost-effective and suitable for smaller productions.

Designing an 8-Page Playbill. For more intricate productions with numerous performers and scenes, an 8-page layout is ideal. This format allows for comprehensive coverage of the play's elements by creating a stapled pamphlet from folded sheets of paper.

Creating the Front Cover. Incorporate the play's title and a thematic image that resonates with the play's subject matter. Consult with the director to ensure alignment with the play's theme. Consider using relevant imagery such as cityscapes or characters to enhance visual appeal.

Adding Title Text. Experiment with font styles, sizes, and arrangements to create visually striking title text. Align the font choice with the play's content; for instance, use formal fonts for classical productions like Julius Caesar. Additionally, include credits for the director, writer, composer, and choreographer at the bottom of the cover.

Format the Inside Cover. In a 6- or 8-page playbill, the inside cover, located on the left after opening, can feature a Director’s Note or show times and dates. Alternatively, display a list of performances and start times for audience convenience.

Create the Back Cover. The back cover can accommodate advertisements for local sponsors or serve as an autographs page for audience interaction. Designate space for signatures by labeling the page with “Autographs,” leaving ample room for cast signatures.

Complete the Cast Page. List actors' names alongside their characters' names, usually in order of appearance. Obtain this information from the director or casting manager. Include headings like “Cast” or “Players” and specify the order of listing per the director’s instructions.

Compose an Acts and Scenes List. Aid audience comprehension by providing a scene list structured as an outline with scene numbers or names, acts, and musical numbers. Expand to two pages for longer or more complex plays.

Include ensemble members for each song. Typically, playbills list characters performing in each song under “Act 1” and “Scene 1.” Characters' names are aligned with the corresponding songs, aiding audience recognition.

Summarize each act briefly. Provide concise plot summaries per act if requested by the director. This helps the audience follow the storyline. For complex plots like The Wizard of Oz, offer brief descriptions to prevent confusion.

Credit the crew. Dedicate a page in your 8-page playbill to acknowledge the technical crew responsible for sound, lighting, and set design. Express gratitude for their contributions to the production.

Include a “Credits” or “Thank You” page. In an 8-page layout, reserve the final page to recognize financial sponsors, the hosting venue, and others involved. Express gratitude to actors, choreographers, directors, and playwrights, concluding with appreciation for the audience.